UFC Perth Fighters Successfully Hit Marks, Della Maddalena and Prates Headline Welterweight Clash

Perth, Australia – All 26 athletes scheduled to compete at UFC Perth successfully made weight Thursday evening, setting the stage for Saturday’s highly anticipated fight card. The weigh-ins, a crucial precursor to any mixed martial arts event, saw fighters across multiple divisions officially confirm their readiness, with the main event featuring top welterweight contender Jack Della Maddalena against the formidable Carlos Prates generating significant attention.

The event, marking the UFC’s return to Western Australia, is anchored by a compelling welterweight non-title bout. Jack Della Maddalena, a local hero hailing from Perth, tipped the scales at a precise 170.5 pounds, comfortably within the 171-pound limit for non-championship welterweight contests. His opponent, Carlos Prates, matched his professionalism, also weighing in at 170.5 pounds, ensuring the main event proceeds without issue.

Della Maddalena, currently ranked No. 2 in the MMA Fighting Global Rankings, carries the hopes of the Australian contingent. With a professional record of 16 wins and 2 losses, the 27-year-old has rapidly ascended the welterweight ranks since his UFC debut in 2022. Known for his crisp boxing, powerful left hand, and relentless pressure, Della Maddalena has secured five of his six UFC victories by knockout or technical knockout. His most recent outing saw him secure a hard-fought split decision victory over Gilbert Burns at UFC 299 in March, further solidifying his position as a legitimate title contender. Prior to that, he had a first-round knockout victory over Kevin Holland, showcasing his finishing prowess. A win in his hometown would not only extend his winning streak but also significantly bolster his claim for a shot at the UFC Welterweight Championship.

Facing Della Maddalena is the dangerous Brazilian striker, Carlos Prates. Prates, with a professional record of 18 wins and 6 losses, enters this contest ranked No. 7 in the MMA Fighting Global Rankings. The 30-year-old made a memorable UFC debut in December, securing a first-round knockout victory over Charles Radtke at UFC Vegas 83. Prates’ striking background, honed through a career that includes multiple finishes by knockout, presents a significant challenge to Della Maddalena’s stand-up game. His aggressive style and ability to land devastating blows from various angles make him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division. Prates, who also secured his UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series with a highlight-reel knockout, will be looking to capitalize on this high-profile opportunity to catapult himself into the top tier of the welterweight division.

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The co-main event of UFC Perth features a high-stakes bantamweight non-title bout between Beneil Dariush and Quillan Salkilld. Both fighters successfully made the 156-pound limit for their contest. Dariush, a veteran of the lightweight division transitioning to bantamweight, weighed in at 155 pounds, while Salkilld also came in at 155 pounds.

Beneil Dariush (22 wins, 6 losses, 1 draw), a long-time contender in the lightweight division, is making a significant move down to bantamweight in an attempt to revitalize his career. The 35-year-old, known for his elite grappling and increasingly dangerous striking, is looking to snap a two-fight losing streak, having suffered knockout losses to Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan in his last two outings at lightweight. This move to bantamweight represents a strategic shift, with Dariush aiming to leverage his strength and technical prowess against a new set of opponents. His experience at the highest level of the UFC will be a critical factor in this matchup.

Opposing Dariush is Quillan Salkilld (19 wins, 5 losses), a fighter who has been steadily building momentum outside the UFC before earning his spot. While specific UFC record details were not provided in the original text, Salkilld’s reported record suggests a seasoned competitor. Known for his well-rounded skill set, including powerful striking and solid defensive wrestling, Salkilld will view this fight against a high-profile opponent like Dariush as a golden opportunity to make a significant statement in the bantamweight division. His ability to withstand Dariush’s grappling attacks and counter with his own offense will be key to his success.

The main card, scheduled to begin at 4 a.m. ET on Paramount+, features a series of compelling matchups designed to engage fans worldwide.

In the flyweight division, Tim Elliott (19 wins, 13 losses, 1 draw) will face Steve Erceg (12 wins, 2 losses). Elliott, a veteran with a unique, unpredictable style, is known for his relentless pace and unorthodox attacks. Erceg, another Australian talent, has made a strong impression since joining the UFC, demonstrating a diverse skill set and a high fight IQ. This bout could have significant implications for the flyweight rankings.

Marwan Rahiki (14 wins, 3 losses) takes on Ollie Schmid (16 wins, 4 losses) in a middleweight clash. Both fighters are looking to establish themselves in a competitive division, with Rahiki often praised for his powerful striking and Schmid for his tenacious grappling and submission skills.

A heavyweight showdown pits Shamil Gaziev (12 wins, 1 loss) against Brando Pericic (9 wins, 2 losses). Gaziev, known for his devastating knockout power, will aim to bounce back from his recent defeat. Pericic, a durable competitor, will seek to weather the early storm and test Gaziev’s cardio and resolve.

Rounding out the main card is another heavyweight battle featuring Tai Tuivasa (15 wins, 7 losses) against Louie Sutherland (7 wins, 1 loss). Tuivasa, a fan favorite known for his "shoey" celebrations and heavy hands, is looking to snap a three-fight losing skid. Sutherland, relatively new to the UFC, will be eager to make a name for himself by taking on a ranked opponent. This fight promises explosive action and a potential knockout.

The preliminary card, also broadcast on Paramount+ starting at 7 a.m. ET, features a mix of rising talents and seasoned veterans. These bouts are critical for fighters looking to climb the ladder and secure more prominent positions on future cards.

Key matchups on the preliminary card include:

  • Cam Rowston (10 wins, 3 losses) vs. Robert Bryczek (17 wins, 5 losses) in a middleweight contest, with Bryczek known for his aggressive striking.
  • Junior Tafa (5 wins, 2 losses) vs. Kevin Christian (6 wins, 1 loss) in the heavyweight division, promising another heavy-hitting affair. Tafa, the younger brother of UFC fighter Justin Tafa, is seeking to build his own legacy.
  • Jacob Malkoun (8 wins, 3 losses) vs. Gerald Meerschaert (35 wins, 17 losses) at middleweight. Malkoun, a grappling specialist, faces the highly experienced and submission-savvy Meerschaert in what could be a technical ground battle.
  • Colby Thicknesse (11 wins, 4 losses) vs. Vince Morales (12 wins, 7 losses) in the bantamweight division. Thicknesse, an Australian prospect, faces a durable and aggressive opponent in Morales.
  • Ben Johnston (9 wins, 2 losses) vs. Wes Schultz (10 wins, 3 losses) at lightweight, a matchup between two well-rounded competitors.
  • Jonathan Micallef (8 wins, 2 losses) vs. Themba Gorimbo (12 wins, 4 losses) in the welterweight division. Gorimbo, a fighter known for his inspiring story and tenacious fighting style, looks to continue his momentum.
  • Dom Mar Fan (7 wins, 1 loss) vs. Kody Steele (6 wins, 0 losses) in a welterweight bout, featuring an undefeated prospect in Steele.

The ceremonial weigh-in video is scheduled for 6:30 a.m. ET, offering fans a final face-off opportunity before Saturday’s fights. The successful weigh-ins ensure all contests are official, setting the stage for what is expected to be a memorable night of mixed martial arts action in Perth, with local favorite Jack Della Maddalena leading the charge for the Australian contingent.

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